Southern 4-Ingredient Bacon Stuffed Tomatoes
My husband begs for these every time we host a backyard gathering, and our guests always fight over the last one. It’s hard to believe something this delicious takes only four simple ingredients.
These Southern-style bacon stuffed tomatoes are one of those old-fashioned recipes that never go out of style. Juicy ripe tomatoes are hollowed out and filled with a rich mixture of crispy bacon and creamy mayonnaise, then topped with buttery cracker crumbs and baked until golden and bubbly. The result is a savory, comforting bite that feels right at home at summer cookouts, family reunions, church suppers, and holiday gatherings alike.
The best part is how effortlessly they come together. With just four ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer that looks impressive and tastes even better.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Only 4 simple ingredients
Perfect for cookouts and potlucks
Crispy, creamy, and savory in every bite
Easy to prepare ahead of time
A great way to use garden-fresh tomatoes
Southern 4-Ingredient Bacon Stuffed Tomatoes
Servings: 6–8 as an appetizer or side dish
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
8 medium ripe tomatoes
8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
½ cup mayonnaise
1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet or shallow baking dish with foil for easy cleanup.
Slice the tops off the tomatoes and carefully scoop out the seeds and pulp with a spoon. Turn the tomatoes upside down on paper towels for a few minutes to drain excess moisture.
In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled bacon and mayonnaise until well mixed.
Arrange the hollowed tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Fill each tomato generously with the bacon mixture.
Sprinkle the crushed buttery crackers evenly over the tops of the stuffed tomatoes, pressing lightly so they adhere.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the cracker topping is golden brown and crisp.
Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Helpful Tips
Choose firm, ripe tomatoes that can hold their shape during baking.
Drain the tomatoes well before stuffing to prevent excess liquid.
For extra crunch, toast the cracker crumbs in a skillet for a minute before topping.
These can be assembled several hours ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm alongside grilled burgers, bratwurst, pork chops, or barbecue chicken. They’re also wonderful on a Southern picnic table with potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, and deviled eggs. For a refreshing contrast, pair them with sliced cucumbers and onions marinated in vinegar.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to restore the crispy topping.
One bite of these creamy, bacon-filled tomatoes and you’ll understand why guests always reach for seconds—and why there never seems to be a leftover on the tray.
